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Chapter 727 The Shock of Pengcheng's Leaders: Return to Hong Kong!

Lin Haoran looked around the dilapidated primary school, rainwater dripping continuously from the leaks in the roof.

Not all leaky areas have metal buckets to catch the water. For example, in this corridor, there are several leaks where rainwater drips directly onto the muddy ground, forming small puddles.

The ground of this primary school is entirely covered in yellow mud, not cement, even inside the classrooms.

The raindrops fell and quickly soaked the ground into a muddy mess.

Several older children were tiptoeing, carefully avoiding the puddles, but they still couldn't help getting mud all over their trousers.

Lin Haoran's leather shoes left clear imprints on the slippery mud.

He watched all this in silence, his gaze moving from the leaky roof to the mottled walls, and then to the children's mud-caked trouser legs and their obviously ill-fitting, even somewhat worn-out, cloth shoes.

"Dang Dang Dang~"

As soon as the school bell rang, the children who had been playing and sheltering from the rain in the corridor rushed to their respective classrooms.

Despite the muddy and difficult terrain, they moved as quickly as possible, afraid of being late for class.

Lin Haoran and his group instinctively made way for each other.

He watched as the small figures nimbly darted around the puddles and disappeared into the simple classroom. Soon after, the sound of reading aloud came from the classroom, drowning out the pattering rain.

Clearly, they have long been accustomed to this kind of life.

The sound of reading aloud mingled with the sound of raindrops hitting the metal bucket, creating a poignant harmony.

The old principal smiled with a mixture of relief and apology: "The children cherish the opportunity to go to school. No matter how bad the conditions are, they can overcome them. This primary school serves several surrounding villages, and many children have to walk a long way to school every day."

Actually, things are much better now. Since Shenzhen became a special economic zone, roads have been built everywhere, and the roads outside have all been paved with cement, making it much easier for children to go to school.

Two years ago, on rainy days like this, the roads were muddy, and students often arrived at school soaked to the bone, covered in mud. The teachers had to find ways to dry their clothes.

Lin Haoran nodded. If this is the case in the Special Economic Zone, the conditions in schools in many remote areas of the mainland are probably much more difficult.

He recalled the scenes he had seen in news reports in his previous life: children in cliff villages climbing vine ladders to get to school every day, schoolchildren in high-altitude areas trekking for hours in sub-zero temperatures, and children who didn't even have proper classrooms and had to attend classes in the open air or dilapidated buildings...

The deputy mayor added softly, "Mr. Lin, what you see is already one of the better village schools in Pengcheng. At least we still have brick and tile classrooms. In some remote areas, there are still mud houses, or even ancestral halls and temples converted into classrooms. Whenever there is heavy rain or snow, classes have to be suspended."

We also want to change this situation, but even we are somewhat powerless to do so. Therefore, our current focus is on improving the economy; once the economy improves, everything will get better.

Inside the classroom, the teacher led the children in reading the text aloud, their voices growing louder and louder. Their tender yet unified voices seemed to carry a power that could penetrate wind and rain.

The scene before us is merely a microcosm of the current state of education in mainland China.

Lin Haoran's gaze followed the last thin figure running into the classroom. The child's trouser legs were almost completely soaked with mud, leaving a small mud mark on the ground with each step.

The spot where he was standing was right next to the glass window of a third-grade classroom.

Through the slightly broken glass window, he saw the scene inside: more than forty children huddled around simple desks, attentively reading the text aloud with the teacher.

Rainwater was still dripping from the roof from time to time, but the children seemed used to it, only subconsciously avoiding the rain-soaked areas, their eyes always following the teacher on the podium.

The teacher's voice was hoarse but powerful as she led the children in reciting: "When the youth are wise, the nation is wise; when the youth are wealthy, the nation is wealthy; when the youth are strong, the nation is strong..."

The children's voices, clear and firm, were particularly distinct amidst the sound of rain.

On those young faces, the eyes were focused and bright, as if the difficulties before them were insignificant.

The rain gradually subsided, but Lin Haoran felt increasingly emotional.

In his previous life, he was also born into a poor family, so he could best understand the hardships and difficulties these children faced on their path to education.

The muddy roads, the dilapidated classrooms, the simple desks, and the determined look in his eyes as he overcame numerous difficulties to learn—all these struck the softest part of his heart like heavy hammers, stirring up countless long-forgotten memories.

When he was a child, his family lived in a remote mountain village.

The village school was equally dilapidated. The classroom windows had no glass, and the biting winter wind howled in, freezing little hands until they turned red and stiff, yet they still had to hold tightly to the shortest pencil and write in their notebooks.
In summer, rainwater would leak down through the cracks in the roof, wetting textbooks and clothes. So everyone would huddle together, using their bodies to shield the books from the rain.

The school has no cafeteria, so we can only eat cold rice and dishes brought from home for lunch. Sometimes, the food in our lunchboxes is even stolen by rats.

To go to school, he had to get up before dawn every day and walk several miles over mountains. On rainy days, the mountain roads were muddy and slippery, and he fell countless times. But even so, he never thought of giving up.

Because he knew that only by studying could he change his and his family's fate and escape that barren land.

Those days of persevering in his studies despite the hardships were filled with bitterness, but they also instilled in him resilience and perseverance, which became the most precious treasures in his life.

Now, seeing these children in front of him, he feels as if he is seeing his former self.

Lin Haoran turned around, looked at the old principal and the deputy mayor, and said, "I want to do my part for the cause of basic education in the mainland in my personal capacity. I want to do my part for this primary school and for these children. I will fund the improvement of the school's teaching environment, build a new teaching building, and replace desks and chairs so that the children can study in a warm, dry, and bright classroom."

Everyone present was stunned.

The former principal and the deputy mayor were filled with surprise and gratitude upon hearing this.

The old principal gripped Lin Haoran's hand tightly, his voice trembling slightly as he said, "Mr. Lin, you are truly a great benefactor to the children! On behalf of all the teachers and students of the school, and on behalf of the surrounding villagers, I express my sincerest gratitude to you!"

"I haven't finished yet. I plan to donate 100 Hope Schools to the mainland every year, mainly in rural areas and towns. These schools should have sturdy teaching buildings, bright classrooms, standard sports fields, and libraries!"

The deputy mayor excitedly grasped Lin Haoran's hand: "Mr. Lin, this is truly a timely help!"

100 schools per year is not only an astonishing number, but also a weighty commitment!
This means that in ten years, there will be a thousand schools, which will benefit countless impoverished students!

This vision and courage commanded the respect of everyone present.

"Vice Mayor Wang, please rest assured, I will definitely do what I say. After returning to Hong Kong this time, I will soon establish a charitable foundation in my own name. At that time, the foundation will be specifically responsible for the promotion and supervision of the Hope School project."

"I will hire a professional team to strictly control every step from school site selection and design to construction, ensuring that every school meets high-quality standards," Lin Haoran replied solemnly.

The last time he talked to Guo Xiaohan about things after marriage, he mentioned to her that after getting married, they would establish a Lin Haoran Charity Foundation, which would be managed by Guo Xiaohan.

In this way, Guo Xiaohan can give full play to his strengths without interfering too much with his business empire.

The task of building Hope Schools in mainland China will be entrusted to the soon-to-be-established 'Lin Haoran Charitable Foundation'.

At that very moment, in such circumstances, Lin Haoran decided on a charitable act that would benefit countless people.

With his current wealth, donating to 100 Hope Schools a year is not a big deal, but it can change the fate of countless children in impoverished areas!
The value created by this investment in education is far beyond what money can measure.

Looking at the old principal's speechless excitement, at the tears glistening in the deputy mayor's eyes, and at the children in the classroom who, despite their difficulties, were still striving for excellence, Lin Haoran felt an unprecedented sense of fulfillment.

"Mr. Lin, I have another request!" The deputy mayor hesitated for a moment, but finally gritted his teeth and said it.

"Oh? Vice Mayor Wang, please speak." Lin Haoran looked at the leader from Pengcheng with a smile.

"Actually, since Pengcheng was established as a city and became a special economic zone, we have been preparing to establish Pengcheng University, but the funding gap is too big."

Higher education requires substantial investment; just building campuses, purchasing equipment, and hiring teachers is an astronomical sum. We have applied to higher authorities multiple times, but the country is currently in dire need of funding for many things…” The vice mayor’s face showed some difficulty.

He paused, then his tone became more sincere: "Mr. Lin, I know you have already made a huge commitment to basic education and shouldn't be making any more demands, but for Pengcheng to develop, factories and workers alone are not enough. We need to cultivate our own high-level talent!"

For the sake of education in Shenzhen, the vice mayor decided to go all out.

Lin Haoran nodded upon hearing this.

He knew that Pengcheng University would be a very prestigious school in the future. Although it was not a 985 or even a 211 university, it stood out in the field of higher education with its unique innovative spirit and pragmatic style, cultivating a large number of practical talents for Pengcheng and even the whole country.

Many of them have become leaders in the field of innovation, the most famous of whom is Mr. Ma, the founder of Tencent.

Since we have the opportunity to participate in its creation in this lifetime, why not let it shine sooner?

Lin Haoran pondered for a moment, his gaze sweeping over the dilapidated classroom and the children's eager eyes for knowledge, before slowly speaking: "Vice Mayor Wang is right. The sustainable development of a city requires both solid basic education and high-level higher education. These two are like two wheels of a cart or two wings of a bird; neither can be lacking."

He paused for a moment, and continued under the expectant gazes of the crowd: "Well then, in addition to the Hope Primary School project, I will personally donate HK$1 million to Pengcheng University as start-up capital for the school's construction."

However, this money must be used for its designated purpose, primarily for the construction of teaching facilities, talent recruitment, and the establishment of scholarships.

"One hundred million Hong Kong dollars? Mr. Lin, thank you so much! This funding is a lifesaver for us!" The deputy mayor was so shocked that he could hardly speak, his hands trembling slightly.

Other government officials and school teachers present also wore expressions of disbelief. HK$1 million was undoubtedly a huge sum in 1981, enough to completely change the course of the establishment of Pengcheng University.

Yesterday, at the opening ceremony of the Wanqing-Shekou Industrial Park, Lin Haoran announced that his company, Hongkong Land Group, would donate HK$100 million to establish the "Hongkong Land Education Fund," which will be used to support outstanding students from underprivileged backgrounds in mainland universities to study science and engineering majors and to jointly train them with enterprises, thus cultivating future engineers and scientists for the country's industrialization process!

That evening, when it was broadcast nationwide via CCTV, it shocked countless people.

Unexpectedly, today Lin Haoran not only reiterated his commitment to donating 100 Hope Schools every year in the future, but also pledged to donate HK$100 million to Pengcheng University.

At that moment, the deputy mayor felt not only shock, but also gratitude and respect.

He had only brought this up reluctantly, thinking that Lin Haoran would at most donate a token amount out of consideration for his status, but to his surprise, it was completely beyond his expectations.

He grasped Lin Haoran's hand tightly, his voice choked with emotion: "Mr. Lin, we will never forget your profound affection for education in Pengcheng! This HK$100 million is not just money, but also the seed of Pengcheng University, the hope for the future of the Special Administrative Region!"

The surrounding government officials and teachers also had tears in their eyes; they knew better than anyone what this huge donation meant.

This means that Pengcheng University can start from a high level, that the blueprint for talent cultivation in the special economic zone can be realized ahead of schedule, and that the fate of countless children will be changed as a result.

Lin Haoran smiled gently and continued, "Vice Mayor Wang, I hope that Pengcheng University can be based in the special economic zone and face the world. It should not only have first-class hardware facilities, but also innovative educational concepts and an open academic atmosphere."

“However,” Lin Haoran changed the subject, his tone becoming serious, “Vice Mayor Wang, I have a few requests.”

The deputy mayor quickly said, "Please speak! As long as it's a reasonable request, we will do our best to meet it!"

Lin Haoran held up three fingers: "First, Pengcheng University should be based in the special economic zone and face the world. Its educational philosophy should be forward-looking. It cannot simply copy the model of established universities in the mainland. It should be bold in innovation and offer majors that meet the development needs of the special economic zone."

"Second, the teaching staff must be of high quality. We must spare no expense to recruit outstanding scholars from home and abroad, and at the same time establish cooperative relationships with well-known universities in Hong Kong and overseas to share teaching resources."

"Third, and most importantly, universities need to have an independent academic atmosphere that is inclusive and encourages innovative thinking. This requires the commitment and support of the municipal government."

The vice mayor nodded solemnly: "Mr. Lin, please rest assured that these requests are completely reasonable and are exactly what we are pursuing. The municipal government will definitely grant Pengcheng University the greatest autonomy so that it can become an educational testing ground for the reform and opening up of the special economic zone!"
"Even if Mr. Lin hadn't brought it up, we would have worked towards this goal. But to be honest, without your funding, these wonderful visions would probably have been delayed for many more years before they could be realized," the deputy mayor said with a wry smile.

Ma Shimin added at the opportune moment: "Boss, we can also help Pengcheng University sign cooperation agreements with Hong Kong University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, such as faculty exchanges, student exchanges, and joint research projects, which can accelerate the growth of Pengcheng University."

"This is a great suggestion!" Lin Haoran praised. "Vice Mayor Wang, the municipal government still needs to coordinate this aspect."

"Definitely! Definitely!" the vice mayor assured repeatedly. "We have already allocated land over there in Nantou Commune. The environment is beautiful and the transportation is convenient. With Mr. Lin's financial support, Pengcheng University will definitely be able to start with high standards!"

Nantou Commune, formerly known as Nanshan, is the future location of the Nanshan District Government.

At that moment, in this dilapidated primary school, several important charitable decisions that would benefit countless people were made.

In reality, although it seems like a lot has been donated, the HK$100 million from yesterday, plus the HK$100 million from today, adds up to HK$200 million, which is only a little over 60 million RMB.

As for Hope Schools, building materials and labor were extremely cheap in those days, so building a primary or junior high school didn't cost much at all.

For others, this might be a huge sum of money.

But for Lin Haoran, it really wasn't a big deal and wouldn't put any financial pressure on him.

He has no shortage of money, but he lacks a career that can truly bring him lasting satisfaction and peace of mind.

Education undoubtedly became the powerful light that illuminated the dark corners of his heart.

He had always heard the saying: With great power comes great responsibility.

In this life, his abilities have surpassed those of most people.

This small act of kindness can not only help many people, but also give him a stronger motivation to make money in the future.

"Vice Mayor Wang, please rest assured, I will arrange for the HK$100 million as soon as I get back. It will be donated to Pengcheng in the name of my foundation!" Lin Haoran said with a smile.

After the engagement, his personal charitable foundation should also be established.

After the engagement, he couldn't possibly let Guo Xiaohan continue working for the Guo family.

She's about to get married and still has to manage her family's business; that won't do.

"Mr. Lin, I can assure you that the teaching building of Pengcheng University will be named after you, so that every student who enters this campus can remember your generous act and selfless dedication. In addition, I will invite CCTV to report on the donation ceremony, so that your good deeds will not go unnoticed!" the vice mayor said solemnly.

"You guys handle it as you see fit. The rain has stopped, we should go now," Lin Haoran said with a smile, looking at the gradually calming rain outside.

He did not reject the deputy mayor's proposal; it was what he deserved.

The clothes got a little wet, so there was no need to continue the inspection.

The convoy returned directly to a guesthouse near Shekou.

After taking a hot shower and changing into dry clothes, Lin Haoran stopped going out and sat on a chair in his hotel room, staring blankly at Shenzhen outside the window.

Around four o'clock, Ma Shimin knocked on the door and came in, saying that he was getting ready to return to Hong Kong.

So Lin Haoran and the others once again took a Mercedes and arrived at Shekou Port.

At the port's dock, the hydrofoil I had taken three days ago was quietly moored.

Just like when they arrived, Lin Haoran led Ma Shimin, Burton, and others onto the ship one by one.

However, there was one more person on the return trip: Liu Xiaoli from the Jiangcheng Song and Dance Theater.

With Yang Mingyi's intervention, the Jiangcheng Song and Dance Theater released the people immediately.

As the ship's horn sounded, Lin Haoran bid farewell to the leaders of Pengcheng City who had come to see him off.

The hydrofoil cut through the calm sea and sped towards Hong Kong on the opposite shore.

Inside the cabin, Lin Haoran gazed out the window at the receding silhouette of Shenzhen, his mind filled with countless thoughts.

On that land, there are the promises he has just made, and countless destinies that urgently need to be changed.

Sitting opposite him, Liu Xiaoli appeared somewhat reserved and uneasy.

The girl was wearing a floral print maxi dress today, which swayed gently with the slight rocking of the boat.

Liu Xiaoli placed her hands on her lap, her fingers unconsciously clutching a corner of her skirt.

Although she dressed simply, it couldn't hide her naturally beautiful face.

Under the soft lighting inside the cabin, her fair skin glowed with a faint luster, as smooth and delicate as mutton fat jade.

Beneath her arched eyebrows, a pair of clear and bright eyes, like a spring, reveal an innocent and lively spirit untouched by the world.

Beneath her small, straight nose were a pair of rosy lips, which were slightly pursed, conveying a hint of nervousness and shyness.

She was holding a simple bag in her arms, containing her few personal belongings.

Leaving her familiar workplace and environment for a completely unknown, bustling yet unfamiliar international metropolis, with an uncertain future, inevitably made the young woman feel lost and uncertain.

Her gaze occasionally swept over Lin Haoran's calm profile. This "Mr. Lin," so young yet so powerful, had changed the course of her life with just a single sentence. She had no idea what kind of future awaited her.

Lin Haoran seemed to sense her unease, turned his head, smiled slightly, and said in a calm tone: "Miss Liu, don't be nervous. When we arrive in Hong Kong, we will arrange for you to stay in a hotel first."

I will assign an assistant to handle your follow-up matters. She will discuss your dance career and future development with you in detail.

His voice seemed to carry a reassuring power.

"Mr. Lin, thank you so much. You are my great benefactor. I will work hard. From now on, you can just call me Xiaoli." Liu Xiaoli said, mustering her courage.

“The environment in Hong Kong is different from that in the mainland. There are more opportunities and a larger platform, but the challenges are also greater. I hope you can adapt as soon as possible,” Lin Haoran added, then said no more and continued to look out the window.

Liu Xiaoli silently pondered these words, and the unease in her heart seemed to lessen somewhat, replaced by a sense of anticipation and eagerness for the future.

The voyage didn't last long before the bustling Victoria Harbour came into view.

Skyscrapers stand side by side, making it seem like a completely different world from Shenzhen, which I just left.

　Asking for a monthly ticket~
　　
　
(End of this chapter)